Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jeff Samardzija throws against the Philadelphia Phillies in the first inning at Wrigley Field in Chicago on August 12, 2009. UPI /Mark Cowan Photo via Newscom

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The Chicago Cubs approached pitcher Jeff Samardzija about a contract extension this winter offering the right hander a five-year deal.
After some talking Samardzija turned down the Cubs offer.
“We both want me to be here and both want me to be part of this team for a long time. When we feel like we’re on the same page with that, we’ll get it done.” Samardzija told the Chicago Tribune.
Samardzija believes “it doesn’t really make much sense” to talk contract after one year in the rotation. With the escalating salaries of pitchers the 28-year-old could dramatically improve his future salaries with a productive 2013 season.
“I still haven’t proven myself to where I want to be as a player. I was happy last year but I don’t want to stay there. I want to improve and get better.
Samardzija went 9-13 with a 3.81 ERA last season in hi first year in the Cubs rotation. Samardzija is hopeful to top 200 innings this season after finishing with 174 2/3 in 2012. He will earn $2.64 million this yea...

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